A&M International's Band Makes First Public Performance at LPO Concert

The Texas A&M International University Band will
make its much awaited debut in Laredo when it presents
a prelude ensemble at the opening of the Laredo Philharmonic
Orchestra symphonic concert scheduled for Jan. 31 at
the Laredo Civic Center.

The 45-member band will make its appearance from 7:15
p.m. to 7:45 p.m. The Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra
will begin its presentation at 8 p.m.

Dr. Ray Keck, chair of the English, Spanish and Fine
Arts Department, said that orchestra conductor Terence
Frazor, a close friend of Elmo Lopez Sr., the University's
band director, invited the University's musical group
to open the night of gala.

"It's a big moment for the band," said Keck,
referring to the performance night. "This is
the first time we have a band sponsored by the University
but that is open for participation by the entire city
of Laredo."

Among the pieces the band is scheduled to play are
march pieces such as Fairest of the Fair by John F.
Souza, Zacatecas by Genera Codina, Stars and the Stripes
Forever by John F. Souza and Beautiful Paso Doble
by Pepita Greus.

"The public is invited for an evening of march
music," Lopez said. "It's all enjoyable,
fun music."

Lopez said that the band is overjoyed with the opportunity
to open for the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra.

"We are very excited because this is the first
time that we play in a concert stage for the public,"
Lopez said.

The University has been supportive of the Laredo Philharmonic
Orchestra, and inviting the band to perform at its
ensemble was a way for the orchestra to help the new
group, Frazor said.

The Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra's selection for the
night includes selections from Mendelssohn and Beethoven.

Meanwhile, Keck said that both the University and the
Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra dedicate themselves to
pedagogical work and that it is a pleasure for the
University to be able to participate in a common activity
with the orchestra.

"The University and the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra
feel a mutual appreciation for each other and that
is very important," Keck said.

Ticket prices at the door are $15 for the general public
and $5 for students. The next concert for the Laredo
Philharmonic Orchestra will be March 2.

The Texas A&M International University Band holds
its weekly practice on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the Kinesiology/Convocation
Building.

For more information, please call the English, Spanish
and Fine Arts Department at 326-2470. University office
hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu